As an increased number of international students join College and University classrooms across the United States, their transition and acclimation to campuses has received attention over the past few years, particularly, in the areas of preparation and acculturation. This topic is important because faculty mentors can play a pivotal role in the…

Based on the theory of transformative learning (Mezirow, 1980) and critical pedagogy (Freire, 1980), mixed-methods research (Tashakkori & Teddlie, 1998) of a hospital workers' union and training organization addressed the impact of a custom-designed, group-focused, results-driven professional development model with 130 participants. Employees…

Discusses how online and hybrid (a combination of online and face-to-face) classes may support quality and success in professional development, teacher education, and professional schools' programs. Presents case study research that explores the dynamics and experience offered for participants in a hybrid-modeled classroom in teacher education.…

Describes the current context for professional development of adult educators, including the complex influences of multiple constituents. Outlines trends--technology for instructional delivery, funding challenges, and adult learner diversity--and issues--technology learning, professionalization, focus, and assessment. (Contains 17 references.) (SK)

Transformative learning theory provides a framework for development of authentic, individuated, critically reflective practitioners. Strategies for transformative professional development include action plans, reflective activities, case studies, and critical theory discussions. (Contains 17 references.) (SK)

Research on 255 adult educators identified their needs in learning to use instructional technology. Results were used to depict technology professional development as a transformative journey. Strategies include assessing current knowledge and needs, engaging in development of relevant curriculum materials using technology, and reflecting on…

An integrative approach views professional development for adult educators as learner centered and transformative; it should address motivation and technology. A new vision of professional development reconceptualizes the process to include understanding of contexts, active learning, reflection, and dialogue. (SK)

The purpose of this mixed method research is to understand and support educators' continuing learning and growth better by using a lens of transformative learning to examine their experience and professional development practice and responsibility. Data from 58 participants and the course professor are analyzed to consider the occurrence of…

Discussion of women as adult learners focuses on the adult learning theory of transformational learning as a framework to examine how women develop their careers, especially technology-related careers. Highlights include the role of voice; pathways of women's careers; gender and technology career issues; minority women; and suggestions for…

Describes the case study of a course that used a hybrid (face-to-face and online) technological format to illustrate a new model of reflective practice in professional development. Argues that faculty should consider where they are taking technology rather than vice versa. (Contains 21 references.) (NB)

Describes a study that examined the experiences of 175 teachers as they learned technology for educational purposes within the framework of transformational learning. Highlights include technology integration; educational technology professional development; adult education; teacher self-confidence; and classroom practice. (LRW)

Drawing from the online experiences of teachers across the United States who participated in online professional development courses, this article focuses on what educators/participants consider to be the roles and responsibilities of the online instructor. They see the online instructor as facilitator, model, planner, coach, and communicator.…

A model of educators' learning experiences in educational technology was developed by studying 205 educators who participated in professional development in educational technology at metropolitan area graduate schools of education over a 7-year period. Data were gathered over the entire semester for all participants. Additional data on a limited…